Resection of Deep Brain Stem Lesions: Evolution of Modern Surgical Techniques

Abstract

Deep brain stem lesions have previously been considered unresectable. With the development of tailored skull base approaches, detailed knowledge of topographical anatomy, utilization of intra-operative mapping, identification of safe entry zones, extensive arachnoid dissection, cautious handling of neurovascular structures, modern surgical techniques with minimal compression of brain stem and retractor-less surgery, the resection of these previously unresectable lesions, has become possible. Herewithin, an overall review is provided and illustrative cases are presented with detailed discussion of the technical perspective of each approach and resection.